Everyone knows that the better you care for something, the longer it can last. This might mean taking your car in for regular maintenance or keeping your home appliances clean. The human body also falls into this category. As people age, how they care for their bodies can make a big difference in overall health and wellness.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., especially among the elderly. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the risk of a cardiovascular event. Participating in activities designed to help adults stay active, such as the VentanaFIT program in Texas, is one of the best ways to promote heart health and wellness with age.
What Is Heart Disease?
Atherosclerosis, or an accumulation of fatty deposits inside cardiovascular arteries, causes heart disease. These blockages can interfere with their ability to move blood and even cause them to become completely blocked. Since blood is how oxygen moves through the body and gets delivered to all organs, less blood means less oxygen. Organs that don’t get enough oxygen can’t function as well, so even though cardiovascular disease occurs in the heart, it can affect all the other parts of the body.
How to Recognize Heart Disease in Older Adults
One of the most important ways to stay on top of heart-related problems is to learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease in older adults. It may have a genetic component, so if anyone in your family has ever been diagnosed with heart disease, it is vital to monitor any symptoms. Some of the warning signs of heart disease in seniors are:
- Pain, numbness, or tingling in the back, neck, arms, jaw, or chest
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded, whether during activity or while resting
- Swelling in the ankles, legs, or feet
- Feeling exhausted or lacking energy
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cold sweats
- Chest pain during exercise that gets better while resting
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can diagnose heart disease and monitor the condition to improve the prognosis.
A Healthier Lifestyle Can Help Prevent Heart Disease
For those who want to reduce their risk and even prevent heart disease, making healthier lifestyle choices can have a significant impact. Older adults who are more active and get good nutrition can reduce their risk of several conditions, not just heart disease. If you or a loved one is concerned about your risk of heart disease, here are some ways to get healthy and stay strong:
- Start exercising – Even low-impact exercises like walking, chair yoga, and water aerobics can help promote heart health and keep seniors in good shape.
- Focus on nutrition – Cut back on heavily processed foods that contain a lot of salt and sugar and replace them with fruits, vegetables, foods high in fiber, and protein-dense foods.
- See your doctor regularly – Take your medications and schedule regular checkups to ensure you are healthy and doing well.
These lifestyle changes and healthy habits can help older adults promote cardiovascular wellness and lead long, fulfilling lives.
VentanaFIT: Helping Our Senior Members Stay Strong and Healthy in Dallas
In our beautiful community full of vibrant and active seniors, one of the ways that our members stay healthy and strong is to participate in our VentanaFIT program. Members receive personalized fitness evaluations and can participate in many different classes. The best way to enjoy life as a senior is to keep your body in tip-top shape. If you or a loved one has been considering moving into senior living, contact us today at 214.225.6197.